Best Hiking Shoes for Flat Feet

A hiking shoe has a comfortable yet highly durable and sturdy wearing design, which is ideal for outdoor activities on rough terrain.

the right Hiking shoe will also most importantly have a trail-specific and highly slip-resistant protective outsole designed specifically for hiking.

Some Main issues Related to Flat Feet

There are a few issues that you may notice when you have flat feet, or you may be lucky enough not to experience any. However, it is still important to get the proper support from your Hiking footwear if you have flat feet or a lower arch type;

Uneven Weight Dispersion – One of the main issues with flat feet is that the arch of your foot is no longer functioning properly, and weight is unevenly dispersed in the ball of your foot and heels which may cause long term pain and damage.

Overpronation – Overpronation occurs when most of the weight is placed on the outer edge of your heel when you take a step, and the foot rolls inward excessively. This, in turn, can be a risk for injuries as well as causing strain on muscles and tendons in the feet and legs. Overpronation is a common occurrence in flat feet.

Plantar Fasciitis – Plantar Fasciitis is pain and inflammation in the Plantar Fascia tissue in the heel, which occurs because of excess impact on the heels or overpronation, which in turn is a result of flat feet or fallen arches.

Hiking Shoes for the Flat Foot

With flat feet comes specific issues such as uneven weight dispersion, heel pain, and condition such as Plantar Fasciitis in which specific features may be required in a good hiking shoe;

Support – Good arch support specific to a low or collapsed arch is ideal in order to replace the functionality of the arch, which is no longer functioning properly.

Stability – Stability features such as a heel cup or contoured footbed and other stability features aid in improving motion and reducing overpronation, which is an issue with flat feet.

Motion Control – Proper alignment and control of motion reduces the risk of injuries and prevents overpronation in flat feet.

Cushioning -Cushioning is a key element that provides comfort and some shock absorbency to return energy to the feet and prevent foot fatigue.

The general attributes for a proper Hiking shoe are to protect against dirt and liquids; therefore, you should always look for waterproof materials to ensure slip resistance on a variety of surfaces and trails, and as well as to be tough and durable in a demanding environment.

Features of a Good Hiking Shoe for Flat Feet

Buying a pair of specialist hiking shoes for people with low arches is necessary from a comfort and safety point of view; Hiking long hours in a shoe that is not intended for flat footers; not only will be very uncomfortable but, could lead to severe foot, ankle and knee damage and should be avoided.

Here is our list of features you should pay attention to:

Construction – Lightweight corrective construction especially at the inner side of the shoe

Outsole – A durable and aggressive outsole that has a lug tread designed for slip resistance on wet and slippery outdoor surfaces.

Comfort – A comfortable cushioned insole, as well as moisture-wicking interior linings to keep your feet cool and comfortable.

Shock Abssorbency – Supportive midsole with a foam or EVA base to absorb shock. Gel cushioning can also aid as a shock absorber.

Uppers – Breathable materials, mesh with synthetic overlays for structure, as well as a waterproof lining in some models.

Flate Feet Hiking Shoes

The Versatrail from Keen is a durable and protective Hiking shoe model that is ideal for flat feet.

A molded EVA midsole for excellent shock absorbency.

Durable rubber outsole with a slip-resistant trail-specific tread.

There is an abrasion-resistant rubber toe cap and reinforced heel.

Cushioned footbed for comfort with a moisture-wicking interior lining.

It offers excellent support and stability for flat feet.

Eliminate Symptoms of Flat Feet use the Right Hiking Shoes

The most efficient, least costly, and easiest way to treat foot pain, particularly foot pain caused by flat feet, is to wear the appropriate footwear.

The most crucial step for anyone who has a flat foot is to wear proper and well-fitting footwear.

Footwear that has become old and worn out does not provide the right fit or suitable amount of support for a flat foot and should be replaced promptly.

Good hiking shoes that provide cushioning, arch support, and good shock absorbency are an excellent choice for flat feet; you can also look at motion control and stability shoes depending on your type of pronation.

People with flat feet are much more likely to overpronate than supinate but may also be neutral pronators.

About The Autor

David Alegeta

David is a long-distance hiker, a writer and an editor whose favorite topics include backpacking and trail running. He is an adventure athlete who covered over 20,000 miles.
He frequently speaks to groups about the benefits of proper footwear and has written numerous articles on this subject.
He lives in Dallas, Texas with his family.